About Us
Meet the team behind Nanophage Technologies
We are a passionate team of scientists, innovators, and problem-solvers dedicated to advancing diagnostics through cutting-edge science. Get to know the people driving our mission forward!
Paul Smith Chief Executive Officer
Paul brings decades of international experience in science-based product commercialization to Nanophage. A senior business leader in Australia, then New Zealand as managing director of Merck (MSD), Paul has managed revenue budgets of >$250M and led the NZ business to triple sales whilst reducing costs. Starting as a research chemist in the UK, Paul transitioned into sales, marketing, and global consultancy. Following his MBA, Paul worked with many of the top 10 pharma companies globally on portfolio and launch strategies. Passionate about translating innovation into patient impact and business growth in NZ, he has held multiple board roles and completed the Institute of Directors course. On weekends, Paul can be found outdoors, trying to keep up running with his family on horseback.
Dr Stuart Blincko Chief Technology Officer
Stuart is an experienced leader in diagnostic assay research and development with a life sciences and chemistry background. With extensive experience in the successful research and development of novel and improved diagnostic assays, Stuart has led teams developing assays for diagnostics and pharma discovery in the fields of endocrinology, cancer, autoimmunity, sepsis, traumatic brain injury, Alzheimer’s, toxicology, transfusion and transplantation. Stuart’s previous roles include being Senior Director leading the Clinical Diagnostics Division R&D at Thermo Fisher Scientific, Head of R&D at Immunodiagnostic Systems, Senior Director of Transfusion Diagnostics R&D at Immucor Inc., and Senior Principal Research Scientist at Abbott Diagnostics - among other impressive roles across both industry and academia.
Cathy Davenport Director of Scientific Operations
Cathy is a co-inventor of the nanorod technology and a PhD candidate at Massey University, where she is exploring how nanorods can be applied in diagnostics and vaccine development. Alongside her research, she has gained valuable experience in commercializing scientific discoveries through the KiwiNet Emerging Innovator program and an internship at Massey Ventures. Cathy’s passion for translating research into real-world clinical solutions stems from her firsthand experience as an EMT working on the ambulance, where she recognized the need for better medical innovations to improve patient care.
Dr Jennifer Tu Managing Scientist
Jennifer is an R&D Scientist and Lab Manager. She works on modifying nanorods, including antibody conjugation, dye labeling, and attaching other molecules for diagnostic use. With her background in protein biochemistry and chemical conjugation, she focuses on improving molecular interactions and boosting the sensitivity of targeted applications. She also manages lab operations to keep things running smoothly and efficiently. Outside of work, Jennifer is a professional cat sitter and loves finding good food spots.
Dr Ruby Roach Scientist and Communications Lead
Ruby is both an R&D Scientist and Science Communicator at Nanophage Technologies, where she designs and engineers biological nanorods and spearheads science communication efforts. She holds a PhD in Biochemistry from Massey University, with expertise in protein-nucleic acid interactions, molecular cloning, and structural biology. Ruby also has a strong background in governence, start-up mentorship, and science outreach. Outside of work, she keeps herself busy with learning te reo Māori and playing tennis.
Aseel Mohammad Biotechnologist
Aseel is a PhD candidate at Massey University and a Biotechnologist at Nanophage Technologies. With expertise in recombinant protein expression, cloning, and mammalian cell biology, Aseel supports the team with her practical knowledge. She focuses on research and solutions that contribute directly to the company’s goals. Outside of the lab, Aseel is passionate about fitness and enjoys reading.
Our team makes detection molecules brighter with our Nanophage scaffolds
Join the Team
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